Ayako Sakuma(First-Year Doctoral Course Student)

Through my studies in clinical psychology and my work with individuals affected by trauma and chronic stress in clinical settings, I have developed a strong interest in the significance of psychologists providing support that addresses both mind and body. I believe it is important not to limit psychological support to verbal approaches alone, but also to include perspectives that engage the body.

In particular, the effects of trauma may manifest not only in emotions and cognition, but also at the bodily level, such as muscular tension, stiffness, freezing responses, and dissociative states. I believe that such conditions call for support that works with the body in addition to psychotherapy.

Based on this perspective, my current research focuses on Somatic Movement, a practice grounded in a body-learning approach. As part of trauma care, I am particularly interested in how approaching trauma from both psychological and bodily perspectives may support recovery and a greater sense of integration.

Through cultivating awareness of bodily sensations and engaging in gentle movement, I aim to explore how recovery from freezing and dissociative states, as well as changes in self-regulation and a sense of safety, may be supported. Ultimately, I hope to investigate the potential of mind–body approaches in trauma care provided by psychologists.